Whistl trials electric Renault truck in Belfast

UK delivery management company, Whistl, is trialling the first electric Renault Trucks Master ZE to be licenced on UK roads.

The all electric 3.1 tonne van is suitable for parcel deliveries carrying over 1000kgs payload and has a range of around 100 miles. It is being trialled in Belfast by Whistl on day-to-day operations, collecting business mail and parcels.

Working with Renault, Whistl are looking at ways of reducing emissions across its 400 strong fleet of vans and HGVs.

Phil Brown, Depot Manager at Belfast said: “The vehicle is a revelation, and the drivers love it.  It is quiet yet the acceleration is immediate and to drive it is no different to a normal van.  The emissions are zero and the anticipated cost of running it are so much lower than traditional diesel.”

Baz Barrett, National Fleet and Compliance Manager added: “It is vital that we as a business continue to look at new technologies and adapt our fleet in this way. We already have an excellent relationship with BRS/ Renault Trucks and so when we knew this 100% electric vehicle was coming to market, we wanted to see how we could integrate it into our fleet in core urban areas. From the feedback so far, it works really well and there is great scope to introduce it into our fleet now to enable us to reduce our carbon and NOx footprint.”

Graham Neagus, Head of LCV on behalf of BRS and Renault, said:” Renault Trucks and BRS are delighted in working with Whistl to help them enter the world of electromobility with the new Renault Trucks Master ZE.

“This vehicle is available in a wide range of styles and is ideal for parcel deliveries carrying over 1000kgs payload and able to cover 100 miles per charge and all with zero emissions.”